I heard this comment from Brooke multiple times over the past few years: "I'll be the last one to get married, cause I want to wait till I'm at least 30. No, make that 35."
Then, in July of 2012 I heard: "I have this friend. His name is Kenny and we've been kinda hanging out. I think he likes me... and I might like him. But we're gonna take it super slow."
By September she was gushing this through the phone: "Jill. He's the one. I know this sounds crazy but Kenny is the one! I CAN'T WAIT TO BE MARRIED!"
So this August 31st found Kay & I (happily) back in a familiar place among the mountains of Eastern Kentucky with Kenny & Brooke, and many friends and family. Despite a threat of rain, the sun shone bright and clear the morning of the Jackson/James wedding. From the time of prayer at the bridal breakfast, to the much-anticipated first look, to the vows written by the bride and groom, to the joy and laughter of the celebration, to the last moments running through rain and sparklers... the day held many surprises and many cherished moments.
First Baptist Church, Williamsburg, Brooke's home chuch, was the setting for the day's events. Built in 1926, it has such beautiful architecture and quite a history!
Over the years I was blessed to be able to sing with friends for different times of worship on our campus. I was honored to reunite with Geoffery and Dillon for the ceremony. The words from the song Brooke & Kenny chose were powerful ones - words that they fully believe and live.
"I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom"
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom"
[How Deep the Father's Love]
Kenny chose to remember and honor his mother as he spoke his vows to Brooke:
"People tell me from time to time how proud my Mom
would be of the man I have become, but I believe that the
thing she would be most proud of is the woman I have
chosen to spend the rest of my life with."
What's a wedding reception without a little competition? :)
"...let your light shine..."
- Matthew 5:16
Kenny & Brooke, thank you for letting us celebrate with you!
Much love,
Jill & Kay
P.S. I (Jill) also want to take this time to point out a few things, since it's my blog, and since Brooke is over 800 miles away, she can't pinch me with her lobster claw fingers if I say too much. (1) She once almost broke my toe with a door, but still denies it. (2) There was a night I thought I was hearing things and going crazy - but it was Brooke playing a ringtone through the wall - on purpose. (3) She likes to video me in my tiredest hours and then show people... who don't even know me! (4) I can't say anymore or she'll hunt me down. Love you, Brooke!
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Mr. & Mrs. James' wedding day photos will soon be available to view at:
